Text & photos by Elise Bernier
C.E Petch has been part of Québec’s heritage for over 100 years. More than a cidery, it is now recognized as a must-see destination that welcomes visitors to the Montérégie region. Justin, the co-owner, opens the doors to 104 years of heritage in apple production.
Cider is gaining in popularity
Cider has been popular in Europe for a long time, but only entered the Québec market in the 1970s. Cider, once considered of poor quality, has long suffered from a bad reputation among Québec
natives.
Today, apple-based beverages have become a must for summer picnics in Québec.
Increased prestige of apples from Québec
C.E Petch’s mission is to showcase apples in every form. Whether it’s an apple pie, doughnut, juice, spirits or cider, every product is a celebration of fruit.
“We even use lower-quality apples to make juice or cider, reducing waste and promoting a circular economy”,
highlights Justin. This approach maximizes local resources, providing more value to each product.
There are about 100 varieties of apples in the orchard, which is very rare in Québec. Despite this, Petch is a small business, so the production is fairly small-scale, but modern at the same time. “We don’t want huge volumes with less flavour, we want tasty, quality little batches. “
A family affair
“My grandfather managed the orchard, started the you-pick business, and my father and I diversified the business,” says Justin. Every family member plays a crucial role. Justin’s mother manages the shop and bookkeeping, previously assisted by his grandmother, while his father focuses on apple quality in the orchard. Justin is responsible for the cidery and distillery.
Everyone focuses on what they do best.
They get together every week for lunch and have business discussions, ensuring that everyone can contribute in the best way possible to the business.
A destination worth the trip
In the fall, the fields are full!
People are very attracted to both the location and the products. They come here when they drive along the cider route or leave Parc Safari.
Petch is located very close to customs so travellers sometimes stop before leaving for a getaway to Vermont or Plattsburgh.
The values of Cidrerie C.E Petch are rooted in history, family and tradition. By opting for a small-scale, but modern production, the family does not want industrial volumes, but instead want to provide quality products, loaded with flavour and Québec authenticity. This way, Cidrerie C.E
Petch continues to honour its legacy while welcoming innovation, celebrating the best of local apples in the heart of Montérégie.
New for the sunny season: This summer, the Illicit Moonshine line welcomes two new flavours, Rosé and Smoke.
Enjoy a cocktail under the summer sun
Verger & Cidrerie C.E Petch
431 Route 202 Hemmingford, QC JOL 1H0